From the very beginning, Ruthie Gmeinder has lived a life defined by curiosity, confidence, and a deep-rooted desire to make a difference.
Born the oldest of eight children and raised in Fargo, Ruthie’s early years were shaped by responsibility and leadership. When her family moved to Brainerd during her sixth-grade year, she quickly found her place—bringing with her a love for learning, especially in math and science, and a natural confidence that would carry her forward throughout her life.
It was during her high school years in Brainerd that something even more profound began to take shape: her love for community.
As secretary of the student council and president of the Latin Club, Ruthie discovered the joy of collaboration. Whether planning events or working alongside her peers, she thrived in bringing people together to create something meaningful. Even then, she had an eye for detail, creativity, and connection—skills that would later become hallmarks of her lifelong contributions. In fact, the Latin Club’s elaborate and award-winning parade floats hinted early on at what would become one of Ruthie’s most recognizable talents: her extraordinary talent for creating costumes and experiences that captivate and inspire.
But Ruthie isn’t someone who simply follows a path—she builds one.
In 1979, as a young professional with a growing family of her own, she helped establish the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Crow Wing County, ensuring mothers and young children had access to essential nutrition and support. Her work extended even further as she served on the Child Protection Team and became a grant writer—advocating for resources and systems that would strengthen families and safeguard children across the region.
Even in the busiest seasons of her life, Ruthie never stepped away from service. As a young mother, she volunteered in programs for early childhood, pouring her time into the very communities she was helping to build. She understood deeply that strong beginnings shape strong futures.
And nowhere has that belief been more evident than in her lifelong commitment to education.
For over 40 years, Ruthie has worked alongside and in support of the Brainerd School District—serving on boards, championing initiatives, and creating opportunities for students and families.
Ask her why, and her answer is simple and powerful: “Education is the greatest gift we can give our community.” She believes learning is not confined to classrooms—it is a lifelong pursuit, and one that has the power to transform lives.
While Ruthie’s impact in education and public service is extraordinary, there is another side to her legacy that is equally unforgettable—and uniquely hers.
Ruthie loves costumes.
Not casually, but passionately.
With remarkable creativity and craftsmanship, she has designed and created intricate, vibrant costumes—many of which rival professional productions. But what makes her work truly exceptional is what she chooses to do with it. Rather than keeping her creations to herself, Ruthie has freely shared and donated them to nonprofit organizations, community events, and fundraising efforts. Over time, these contributions have generated more than $275,000 in support of charitable causes—helping organizations thrive while bringing joy and wonder to countless audiences.
One of the most beloved examples of her work comes to life each year at the Northland Arboretum’s Haunted Trails. Ruthie not only creates costumes but also helps build the sets and experiences that transform the woods into something magical. For Ruthie, it’s not just about the display—it’s about the people it impacts.
Once, a two-year-old child looked up at her and said, “I have been waiting all year for this.”
In that moment, everything she poured into her work made perfect sense.
Because for Ruthie, joy matters.
Connection matters.
People matter.
Those who know Ruthie often speak of her presence in a way that is impossible to ignore. As Kevin Thesing once said, “When Ruthie enters a room, the room changes.”
Her energy is magnetic—bright, enthusiastic, and deeply genuine. She has a remarkable ability to take something ordinary and make it extraordinary. Again, in the words of Kevin Thesing, “She knows how to take an event and make it special.”
And if you spend any time around her, you quickly realize something else—Ruthie gets things done. And she proves it every day through her tireless dedication, her boundless creativity, and her willingness to show up again and again for her community.
Yet even with everything she has accomplished, Ruthie remains grounded in a philosophy that invites others in.
She believes that everyone has something to give—time, talent, or treasure—and that meaningful change happens when people discover their unique way to contribute.
Her advice to others reflects that belief:
“Find your passion. You have to love it.”
That passion has guided every chapter of her life—from the classrooms of Brainerd to community boards, from early childhood programs to large-scale productions, from quiet acts of service to transformative community impact.
Ruthie Gmeinder is more than a volunteer, more than a leader, more than a creator.
She is a catalyst.
A connector.
A reminder that one person—driven by passion, purpose, and generosity—can truly change the trajectory of a community.
And in the Brainerd Lakes Area, her impact will be felt for generations to come.